In 2017, the University of Calgary’s
Health Technology Assessment Unit
at the Cumming School of Medicine
released the findings of a survey of 64
reviews on health effects and harms
related to cannabis.

All but three reviews associated harm
with cannabis use, says Fiona Clement,
HTA’s director. “One of biggest concerns
was cannabis use during pregnancy.”
The survey found using cannabis when
pregnant was linked to low birthweight
babies, birth complications, lung
problems and changes to how the
brain works.

Clement says researchers also noted
concerns with the interaction between
cannabis use and mental health. Risks
include psychosis, mania, and relapse of
psychosis or schizophrenia. It is unclear
whether cannabis causes these conditions
or just speeds up their onset, she says.

“People will make their own choices,”says Clement. Being fully informedabout the risks will help them to “makemore responsible choices.”Although non-medical use of cannabismay never be completely safe, Albertanswho choose to use it can reduce their riskby following these suggestions:

•;Limit cannabis use to weekendsor one day a week. Be aware ofthe strength—the amount of THC(tetrahydrocannabinol), the chiefintoxicant found in cannabis. The lowerthe THC content, the lower the risk.

•;Avoid using artificial cannabinoids
such as K2 and Spice. They mimic the
effects of THC, but can be more toxic
and put you at risk of overdose.

•;Avoid holding your breath when you
inhale. This will lower the risk of
toxins going into your lungs and body.

•;Avoid mixing cannabis with
alcohol, tobacco or street drugs.
This is especially true with sedating
drugs such as opioids and some
prescription drugs.

•;Avoid driving when using cannabis.
It affects reaction time, coordination
and concentration, and increases
your chances of a collision.

•;Avoid cannabis if you have a family
history of psychosis, substance use
disorders or other mental health
problems.

•;Avoid cannabis if you are or might
be pregnant.

•;Watch for bad reactions: paranoia,
panic, fast heart rate, confusion,
nausea or vomiting. If someone you
know is having trouble breathing, has
gone pale or is not responding, call

911.

The key for healthy adults is to followthese guidelines, says Dr. Gerry Predy,AHS’ former senior medical officer ofHealth. “People who use cannabis can doso without major consequences, if theydo so carefully.” |anevercompletelysafe